Practical Nursing

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a vital member of a high-performance health care team. LPNs practice under the supervision of Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Doctors and several other healthcare professionals.  These clinicians rely on the LPN to help deliver appropriate, timely and compassionate care. 

LPNs may work in a variety of different settings to include; nursing homes, private physician practices, hospitals, home care, etc. LPNs may have variance in their schedules providing for increased flexibility in their home life depending on their chosen place of employment. 

Duties of a LPN may include:

  • Collection, measurement, observation, documentation, and reporting of clinical data relating to a patient’s condition

  • Performing a variety of clinical procedures, such as urinary catheterization, tracheal suctioning, sterile dressing changes, and routine wound treatments

  • Administration of prescribed medications

  • Supervision of Certified Nursing Assistants

  • Education of patients and providing support to individuals and their families

LPNs are licensed by the state in which they practice. To obtain a LPN license, the state may require background checks and proof of education. Every state administers the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCLEX-PN) exam, which candidates must pass to obtain their license. Licenses are then renewed periodically dependent on the state one practices in.

Admission Requirements

Fulfillment of the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the Practical Nursing program. All candidates who meet admission requirements will be considered for acceptance. The number of students accepted into the program is limited to 30.

  • Applicants must be 17 years or older.

  • Provide copies of birth certificate, current (non-expired) NYS driver’s license or non-driver ID, and social security card.

  • Provide an official HS transcript or a copy of GED/HSE diploma.

  • Complete and return the admissions application along with the $95 testing/application fee and your selected date for the entrance exam. (Make check or Money Order payable to DCMO BOCES)

  • Complete and obtain an acceptable score on the TEAS pre-entrance exam.

  • Pass the health requirements and physical examination.

  • Provide proof of Immunizations as outlined in the Health Records Requirement Table.

  • Provide three professional references.

  • Must be physically and emotionally capable of performing the duties necessary for caring for all types of patients throughout the entire ten-month program without restrictions.

  • Demonstrate an interest in nursing, professional attitude, and dependability.

  • There is a rigorous attendance policy for this program. All absences require make-up hours. 

  • Must have your own transportation to the campus and clinical sites. Clinical assignments are assigned with the intent to give you the best possible clinical experience.

  • Complete an interview with the Financial Aid Advisor. All financial arrangements must be in place prior to the program start date.

  • Complete an interview with the Coordinator of Health Occupations.

Pre-Entrance (TEAS) Exam

The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam is completed online and consists of four sections:

Reading: Key Ideas & Details 10%, Craft & Structure 6%, Integration of Knowledge & Ideas 10% (Time: 55 minutes / 45 questions) 26% of total score
Math: Numbers & Algebra 12%, Measurement & Data 11% (Time: 57 minutes /38 questions) 23% of total score
Science: Human Anatomy & Physiology 12%, Biology 6 %, Chemistry 5%, Scientific Reasoning 6% (Time: 60 minutes /50 questions) 29% of total score
English and Language Usage:Conventions of Standard English 8%, Knowledge of Language 7%, Using Language and Vocabulary to Express Ideas in Writing 7% (Time: 37 minutes / 37 questions) 22% of total score

TEAS FAQ

Do I have to take the TEAS exam? 
Yes, all applicants must take a pre-entrance exam in order to be considered for acceptance. If you have already taken the TEAS exam, we require an official transcript of the results sent directly from ATI. Request transcripts from ATI by calling 1-800-667-7531.  

How can I best prepare for taking the TEAS? 
Visit www.atitesting.com. ATI offers review products: a study manual and an online assessment. The following are also helpful links:

I use a calculator on the TEAS?
Yes, however, you may only use a four-function calculator provided by the exam proctor.

How long will it take for me to get my TEAS scores? 
Your results will be available online immediately after finishing the exam      

 What is considered a passing score on the TEAS?  
We recommend a score of 50-55% or greater on the TEAS  exam to be considered for the program, however your admission is not solely based on this score.